Sofitel Saigon Plaza takes foodies on a gastronomic tour of the subcontinent

Hariyali kabab at the Indian Food Festival being held from September 12 to 19 at Sofitel Saigon Paza's Café Rivoli. Photo: Sofitel Saigon Plaza

The world of Indian cuisine is famous for its spices and complex flavors.

For fans of Indian cuisine and spicy food, Sofitel Saigon Plaza in District 1 is putting on a spread.

The Indian Food Festival from September 12 to 19 at the hotel's Café Rivoli, which is known to feature international dishes and Asian specialties, will see renowned chefs Sanjay B. Dasari and Girishkumar Palliyal Ayichthu make an array of authentic Indian dishes.

"Inviting original Indian master chefs from the regions [around the country] is a big task. Our aim is to bring authentic food from across India to the city and to enhance the dining experience with a live yoga dance show and music from these regions," Bertrand Courtois, general manager of Sofitel Saigon Plaza, says.

Dasari, who has successfully led several Indian food festivals around the world, says: "Indian cuisine is different from rest of the world not only in taste but also in cooking methods.

"It reflects a deep heritage that has been flavored through many diverse influences and exchanges. It is known for the use of various spices.

"But one should not forget that every single spice used in Indian dishes, carries some nutritional as well as medicinal properties."

Among the highlights are chicken tikka masala, which is barbecued chicken chunks marinated in spicy sauce, often overnight, and tastes creamy and spicy.

Then there is the South Indian and hence lesser known karuvepillai ira, which is prawns marinated in a delicate mix of spices and tossed with curry leaves.

Among the main courses are uppu kari, succulent pieces of lamb marinated in salt and cooked with an exotic mix of spices.

The delicious dosa (fermented crepe or pancake made from rice and black-lentil batter), among the foods South India is most longed after in the rest of the country, is an exotic offering at the festival.

Indian desserts like Kheer (traditional rice pudding) have much fun to offer.

The Indian buffet is available daily from 18:30 to 22:30. It costs VND850,000++ for adults, VND425,000++ for children aged 6 - 12, and is free for children under 6. It also includes a free flow of tea and soft drinks.